Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The introduction of mandatory reporting has not been proceeded with to date, on the basis that it has not been adequately demonstrated that the system would result in greater protection for children.We also need to ensure that available resources are used efficiently. I understand that recent research points to difficulties in other jurisdictions where mandatory reporting was introduced.

The Implementation Plan approved by Government in response to the Report of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse identifies the need for legislation to provide that staff employed by the State and in agencies in receipt of funding from the Exchequer will have:

- a duty to comply with the Children First national guidelines;

- a duty to share relevant information in the best interests of the child

- a duty to co-operate with other relevant services in the best interests of the child.

It is intended that this legislation will be drafted by December 2010.

A revised edition of Children First Guidelines will be published by the end of this year. Children First Guidelines are national over-arching guidelines that apply to all individuals and agencies that are dealing with children. They are intended to support and guide health professionals, teachers, and members of the Garda Síochána and the many people in sporting, cultural, community and voluntary organisations who come into regular contact with children.